So, I've just picked the latest DS Blue Dragon title, Awakened Shadow. All I've really done so far is create my character and learn the basics of the game's combat system. On the surface, it appears to be very much what I thought it was going to be: It's Dragon Quest 9 with the simple action combat system that that title was originally planned with.
My first impressions aren't particularly great, though. Although I've put in less than an hour so far, I can say a few things at least. The character creator wasn't bad. Although the number of options weren't terribly diverse, there was enough to create many differently styled characters. There are a fair number of hair colors and styles to choose from, and since those are the most recognizable aspects of any Toriyama design, it works fairly well.
The combat is decent, but not that impressive either. You can attack, block, and if you hold the attack button, you can use special skills. Rather than using MP, using a special skill simply locks out your skills for a short time.
The worst part so far is definitely the localization. It's just piss-poor. Although I wasn't expecting much, there have been consistent errors in the text already. The most noticeable is that characters keep referring to the main character using plural pronouns like "they," as if the game can't differentiate between single player and online modes. The voice acting is pretty awful too. The visuals are top-notch, though. Some of the best 3D on the DS. Appears to be cel-shaded, too.
These are just first impressions, mind you. And I also just finished playing Nier, which was freaking awesome, so that probably doesn't help things. I'll put more time in tomorrow and see where it goes.
05/25/2010
"Got 3 of Cookies" - I think that pretty much says it all about the localization.
I think I just found the title for my review [img]non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif[/img]
05/28/2010
"Looks like Jiro has the bigger load." - Kluke
I think that's the most entertainment I've gotten out of this game so far.
I will quickly add that the "combine" system is interesting, but charging you gold to use it is stupid. The system's main purpose is to get rid of useless items, so it makes no sense to charge cash for it as well. Using the system, you can create new items or upgrade existing ones by combining two items together. Sort of like the fusion system in SMT, but for items rather than characters.
Reply With Quote
Originally Posted by Quote:(Nyx @ Jun. 28 2010, 6:28 PM)
